Hybrid Heat Pump Hot Water Heaters
Bringing you the latest technology (and rebates) to save you money.
Is your hot water heater causing your energy bill to rise?
My experience with my new Hybrid Hot Water Heater
Bringing you the latest technology (and rebates) to save you money.
Is your hot water heater causing your energy bill to rise?
Did you know: The second
biggest “energy gobbler” (our air conditioner is
#1) in our homes is our water heater! Most
of these heaters run on electricity (some of course are heated by gas) and use
large amounts of energy. Many are extremely inefficient due to iron and other
minerals that build up in the unit over time that ruin the ability of this
device to properly heat our water. The aluminum elements corrode over time
further adding to the problem. Most homeowners are not aware of this problem.
The good news is they have just developed a
solution to this problem! After years of research, your local Lowes and other home improvement stores
are now carrying hybrid heat pumps. These devices will replace your current
aging/inefficient electric water heater with no loss of hot water! The units are costly but the good news
is they are @ 62%
more efficient! If you have
an older water heater, this new hybrid model is something to strongly consider.
Energy Rebates from Gulf Power
Gulf Power Co. (see details on their website under Earth Cents) is currently offering a $700 rebate
for a limited time on this outstanding
energy efficient alternative! These 50 gallon units are suitable for most
homes but must be in open air spaces such as washrooms or your garage. A heat
pump is attached to the top of the tank does the heating and uses far less energy.My experience with my new Hybrid Hot Water Heater
 |
| My brother in law Fred standing with Robby the Robot |
Since my water heater was approximately 10 years old, I
decided to purchase a GE hybrid from
Lowes. When we removed the old unit (which appeared to be in good condition) we
discovered it was in horrible shape and a real
hazard. Water heaters can last for over 15 years depending on how they are
maintained (I now understand they
should be drained each year to eliminate sediment buildup).
When we cut the old hot water heater open, it was over ½ full
of sediment/rust!! The elements inside were corroded and caked with minerals. I
was really disgusted that my family had been using water from this unit! There
is no way to know the interior condition of these devices unit they are removed
and cut open. I am certain most homeowners aren’t aware of this issue that this
condition can not only affect their pocket books each month but may not be
healthy either.
I did a lot
of research about the rebate and was careful to have the unit professionally
installed. It may require some minor modifications to accommodate the
size/shape of the new unit. I changed the flexible copper supply hoses and
valve but it’s not always necessary. The new unit (I call it Robby the Robot) as the top of the unit
is black and has a computer panel built in and sorta looks like a robot.
After
installing the new hybrid, I was very pleased that it provided hot water
(seemed hotter than before) and the water felt “softer”. The heat pump atop the unit does make a noise
(similar to that from your refrigerator) as it comes on and off to heat the
water but it’s certainly not an issue in the garage and actually blows cold air
across the grill elements mounted in the top housing (free a/c)!
The bottom
line is: my total cost (after the
$700 rebate) was around $450. (the unit costs @ $1195.and there are 2-3 mfgs and
models available) plus installation. It can be installed by the homeowner but
you should be very proficient at electrical and plumbing work or call a
professional to ensure it’s installed correctly and not damage this expensive
unit. A normal replacement electric
water heater costs approximately
$250-300. so in my mind it was well worth the investment!
I am very upbeat about this new technology and
glad I made the switch! I actually purchased a 2nd unit and
installed it in my sister’s home. The rebate won’t last long so I would
encourage every homeowner to evaluate their unit and see if this hybrid is best for you!
For more energy saving tips, check out this thorough booklet offered by the US Dept. of Energy.
Until next time,
Bob Supinger, Realtor ~ (850) 207-0912
Realty Masters of FL ~ # 1 in Pensacola Property
Management and Pensacola Rentals!
4400 Bayou Blvd. #58B, Pensacola, FL 32503~ call us at (850) 473 3983
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